Aircraft crash into Lake Petén Itzá during cargo flight

No fatalities • Flores-Mundo Maya (Santa Elena), Guatemala • Landing (descent or approach)

A cargo aircraft crashed into Lake Petén Itzá while approaching Flores-Santa Elena Airport, resulting in no fatalities among the crew.

What happened

During a scheduled cargo operation traveling from Dos Lagunas to Flores, Petén, an aircraft went down in Lake Petén Itzá. The incident occurred as the flight crew was performing the approach phase into Flores-Santa Elena Airport.

Upon impact with the water, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss. Despite the severity of the crash, rescue efforts were successful, and all three occupants were recovered from the scene without loss of life.

Findings

The specific reasons for the descent into the lake remain undetermined, as the crash occurred under unknown circumstances.

Probable cause

The cause of the accident remains undetermined at this time.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-07-20 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Flores-Mundo Maya (Santa Elena), Guatemala?

A cargo aircraft crashed into Lake Petén Itzá while approaching Flores-Santa Elena Airport, resulting in no fatalities among the crew.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-07-20 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-07-20 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration TG-PAW, operated by Aero Express - Guatemala, at Flores-Mundo Maya (Santa Elena), Guatemala.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the accident remains undetermined at this time.

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